Member spotlight

Despite the initial challenges, Jonny found the apprenticeship program thrilling. He appreciated the systematic way the program instructors taught, starting with the basics and building on them. “I was always looking forward to it because the things that you’re taught may seem kind of elementary, but you understand that it’s all part of a system,” he says. “You’re learning something small, but then you know this little thing is going to be used somewhere else for a much larger project.”

While he was eager to progress faster, Jonny ultimately learned to trust the program’s pace. The four-year program, which combines classes with extensive on-the-job training, taught him the value of patience. “They know what they’re doing and can guide you,” he realized. “In the end, it’s going to be the best situation for you to go slow.”

Jonny also learned that in the Union, help is always available—you just have to ask for it. He emphasizes that if you don’t seek assistance, you’re only holding yourself back.

Today, Jonny primarily works in Atlanta but has traveled throughout the southeastern region for projects. In the next five years, he plans to continue honing his craft and eventually move into a superintendent role. To achieve this, he’s currently working towards an associate’s degree in construction management through Gwinnett Technical College, a school that has an articulation agreement with SDTTF.

His advice to new apprentices is simple: “Don’t stay still. Always be moving forward.” He stresses the value of continuously growing your skills and being reliable. “Reliable people with skills and knowledge in the construction industry are very rare,” he says.

When he’s not on the job or in class, Jonny unwinds by watching his favorite team, the Atlanta Braves, whether it’s at the ballpark or on TV.

Recently, Crystal visited the training center in Chattanooga to get her forklift recertification. While she’s glad to be done with the classroom portion of her apprenticeship—juggling it with work could be a challenge—she appreciates the ongoing training opportunities the union provides.

As a woman in a male-dominated field, Crystal admits there have been challenges. She often feels like she must prove herself on every new job site, despite her years of experience. However, she believes it’s worth it.

“When they see a woman that’s succeeding as much as a man is, that’s impressive,” she says. “I’d totally recommend a woman to join the union.”

“Being part of the union has been a great experience for me,” she says. “A lot of people help me along the way and I appreciate it. I love the connections that I have, and I love the people that I meet.”

When she’s not at work, Crystal enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, and tackling home improvement projects.